When McDonald’s moved back to Chicago in 2018, it wasn’t just changing zip codes—it was making a statement. The nine-story West Loop landmark is sleek, modern, and buzzing with energy, standing tall in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.
The ground floor is a foodie’s dream: a McDonald’s restaurant with a rotating global menu. One month you might find Australian cheese & bacon fries; the next, a Brazilian McFlurry. Franchisees and curious customers alike line up for the chance to taste what the rest of the world is ordering.
My favorite was easily Japan’s soft serve ice cream in a waffle cone topped with hot fudge and almonds.
McShaker Fries from Finland are dusted with a seasoning that you “shake” on yourself by tossing the fries and spices together in a McDonald’s bag.
Grand McExtreme Intense Cheddar - from Spain - featured bacon, orange-hued cheese and onion.
The McSpicy is a spicy chicken sandwich, known for withh a crispy, breaded chicken filet seasoned with a blend of chili and pepper, plus shredded lettuce and mayonnaise. From Hong Kong.
The Samurai McSpicy from Thailand was all of the above, plus a teriyaki sauce.
McPops – Spain. McPops are mini doughnut balls with soft and fluffy interiors, filled with flavored filling and dusted with either powdered sugar or cocoa. They’re a perfect sweet snack, especially suited to pair with coffee. I enjoyed the hazelnut flavor.
Boston Donut - chocolate icing outside and cream inside.
It was a fun novelty meal, but none of these I would repeat order.
